Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when administering anesthetics to a pediatric patient?

1. Maintaining adequate hydration

2. Preventing aspiration

3. Monitoring for respiratory depression

4. Minimizing postoperative pain

The correct answer is: Monitoring for respiratory depression

Monitoring for respiratory depression is paramount when administering anesthetics to pediatric patients due to their unique physiology and response to anesthesia. Children, particularly infants and young children, may have smaller airways and different respiratory mechanics compared to adults, making them more susceptible to changes in respiratory function with the use of anesthetics. Anesthetic agents can depress the central nervous system, potentially leading to hypoventilation or apnea. This risk necessitates vigilant monitoring of respiratory rate, depth, and effort during and after the procedure. Additionally, pediatric patients may have less physiological reserve, meaning any respiratory compromise can progress more quickly and with more severe consequences than it might in adults. While maintaining adequate hydration, preventing aspiration, and minimizing postoperative pain are also important considerations in pediatric anesthesia, the immediate effects of anesthetic agents on respiratory function make monitoring for respiratory depression the highest priority in ensuring patient safety. This vigilance helps to quickly identify any adverse reactions and facilitates prompt intervention.